In an era where college athletes are often navigating the complex waters of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, few decisions have reverberated across the college football landscape like Jaren Kanak’s recent bombshell. The Oklahoma Sooners tight end reportedly turned down a staggering $6.5 million NIL offer from the University of Southern California (USC), opting instead to remain in Norman, where loyalty, team chemistry, and unfinished business mean more than a massive payday.
This isn’t just a story about money—it’s a narrative that could reshape how we think about loyalty in the NIL era. In the hyper-commercialized environment of modern collegiate athletics, Kanak’s decision stands out as a beacon of commitment, culture, and character.
A Shocking Development
According to multiple sources close to both programs, USC approached Kanak with a blockbuster NIL package structured over two seasons, loaded with endorsement deals, promotional appearances, and even creative control over a branded podcast venture based in Los Angeles. The $6.5 million figure would have made Kanak one of the highest-paid non-quarterbacks in college football—placing him in the same conversation as players like Arch Manning and Travis Hunter, who have reportedly landed similarly large packages.
The deal was enticing in every sense: high-profile brand alignments with major apparel companies, television and media visibility in the L.A. market, and full relocation benefits. Yet, Kanak said no.
“Loyalty is not just a buzzword for me,” Kanak reportedly told Oklahoma staff during a closed-door meeting last week. “I came to Oklahoma to build something special. I made a commitment to this team, and I’m not leaving that behind for a dollar figure—even if it’s $6.5 million.”
Who Is Jaren Kanak?
Originally from Hays, Kansas, Kanak was a highly touted four-star recruit in the 2022 class. Initially recruited as a linebacker, he transitioned to the tight end position during his second year at Oklahoma, impressing coaches and fans alike with his versatility, athleticism, and toughness. At 6-foot-2 and 235 pounds, Kanak has developed into a multi-dimensional weapon—capable of run blocking, pass protection, and explosive route-running over the middle.
Under the guidance of head coach Brent Venables and offensive coordinator Seth Littrell, Kanak carved out a significant role in Oklahoma’s up-tempo, high-powered offense. In the 2024 season, he posted 41 receptions for 548 yards and 6 touchdowns, becoming a favorite target in red-zone situations and a critical cog in the Sooners’ drive toward a New Year’s Six bowl.
Loyalty Over Luxury
The Kanak decision isn’t just unprecedented because of the money—it’s unprecedented because it bucks a trend that’s only accelerated since NIL regulations came into effect in July 2021. High-profile athletes have used their leverage to move between programs with million-dollar incentives paving the way.
Yet, Kanak’s value system harks back to a more traditional college football ethos. His father was a high school coach, and Kanak has long been known for his blue-collar mentality. Sources close to the player say he had no interest in “playing the free-agent game” or “chasing money over meaning.”
“I know what my name is worth,” Kanak reportedly told a teammate. “But I also know what Oklahoma means to me. That’s worth more than anything on a check.”
It’s a mindset that has drawn praise from teammates, coaches, and even rival programs. USC head coach Lincoln Riley, who ironically coached at Oklahoma before his move to Los Angeles, issued a short but respectful statement:
“Jaren Kanak is an exceptional player and young man. We wish him nothing but success. Loyalty like that is rare and admirable.”
Brent Venables Reacts
Head coach Brent Venables has been vocal about the importance of character and commitment in his locker room, and Kanak’s decision embodies that culture.
“Jaren is the type of guy you build a program around,” said Venables in a press conference. “He’s a leader, he’s a worker, and he’s someone who believes in the team-first mentality. We talk a lot about legacy here at Oklahoma—and Jaren is writing one that’s going to be remembered for years.”
Venables also alluded to how Kanak’s loyalty could serve as a ripple effect through the team. In a sport often overshadowed by selfish decisions, his act of selflessness could galvanize others to stay the course, particularly as Oklahoma prepares to make the jump to the SEC—a move that adds another layer of competitiveness and prestige to the program.
Teammate Support and Locker Room Impact
Inside the Sooners’ locker room, Kanak’s decision has already elevated his status as a leader.
“Man, that’s our guy,” said quarterback Jackson Arnold. “You see someone turn down that kind of money, and you realize he’s all in. That makes us go all in too.”
Veteran wide receiver Jalil Farooq echoed that sentiment, noting, “Kanak could’ve cashed out and dipped. Instead, he doubled down on this team. That says everything.”
In many ways, the locker room has become more tightly knit because of Kanak’s choice. At a time when players can often feel like mercenaries, his stand has re-emphasized the value of continuity, shared sacrifice, and long-term vision.
NIL Ethics and the Future of College Football
Kanak’s decision also reignites the conversation around NIL ethics and how programs are using money to poach players mid-career. While technically legal under current NCAA guidelines, these kinds of aggressive NIL offers have raised concerns among college administrators and fans alike.
“It’s one thing to reward players for their performance,” said one anonymous Big 12 athletic director. “It’s another thing entirely to treat it like unrestricted free agency. What USC did here was try to buy a cornerstone player—and they failed, thanks to Jaren’s integrity.”
Some voices within the NCAA are already pointing to Kanak as a potential “poster player” for a more sustainable NIL model—one where financial incentives are balanced with team culture and educational goals.
NFL Implications and Future Outlook
Ironically, Kanak’s decision may boost his NFL stock more than any NIL deal could have. Scouts are always looking for intangibles—leadership, maturity, commitment—and Kanak just displayed all three in a major way.
“He just sent a message to every GM in the NFL,” said ESPN analyst Mel Kiper Jr. “That’s a guy who’s going to show up, do his job, and lead from the front. It’s the kind of move that makes you a team captain at the next level.”
Kanak is already being projected as a mid-round NFL Draft pick, but a strong 2025 campaign in the SEC could elevate him into Day 2 territory. Remaining at Oklahoma not only secures his legacy but also provides continuity in an offensive system tailored to his strengths.
The Bigger Picture
What Jaren Kanak did is rare. In an age where financial gain often trumps loyalty, his choice to stay put sends a powerful message. It’s a reminder that not all value can be measured in dollars. Sometimes, the biggest wins happen off the field—in the quiet, personal decisions that shape culture and character.
Oklahoma fans will never forget what Kanak did this offseason. And neither will the sport of college football.
As NIL continues to evolve, Kanak’s story will be held up as a milestone moment—a time when one player chose purpose over profit, loyalty over luxury, and legacy over leverage.
Final Thoughts
Jaren Kanak may not be the highest-paid tight end in college football, but he just might be the most respected. In rejecting USC’s $6.5 million offer, he didn’t just make a statement—he made history.
